SIU students and researchers are investigating the truth in CBD labeling.
Doctor Mary Kinsel, one of the lead researchers, said the project came about after the FDA released a report saying that many CBD products are mislabeled.
"Through their studies the FDA has found that many products are either mislabeled or poorly labeled in terms of their content of CBD and other cannabanoids," Kinsel said.
The project also offers an opportunity for students to get hands-on experience in a lab setting.
Senior Chloe Leonard said she hopes her work in the lab will prepare her for future studies.
"I'm actually a pre-Physician Assistant major so I'm really interested in the medicinal side of CBD so I thought it was perfect, it would allow me to get some lab practices, you know, learn all the techniques and be better prepared for other research in the future," Leonard said.
CBD is a chemical found in hemp and marijuana that is promoted as a supplement for many health conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain.
Kinsel said the initial phase of the project focuses on CBD oils and tinctures, and she says they hope to have some initial results by the end of the semester.